Benediction & I Am I Added To Bloodstock 2012 Line-Up

Bloodstock Open Air can reveal another two names for the main Ronnie James Dio stage this summer's festival that encapsulates the range of talent on offer, from legendary acts to the hottest new stars of the future.

Marking their third appearance at Bloodstock, Birmingham Death Metallers Benediction return to Catton Hall, bringing with them a British Extreme Metal Institution. Over 23 years and nine albums, the ferocious five piece have been flying the flag high for UK death metal across the world, but seemingly there's no place like home.

The band say: "To be invited back to play Bloodstock for the third time is truly an honour for Benediction. Bloodstock was the first festival to give us (and our genre of music) any exposure on the big stage in the UK and gained Benediction a lot of new supporters because of their faith in us. We are really looking forward to playing our racket for the Bloodstock crowd who have been very loud and supportive of us each time we have played .The best UK festival, the best crowd, the best atmosphere. See you all at the bar after the carnage !"

Since parting ways with Dragonforce, former frontman ZP Theart has been quiet â until now. Last week the first new track from I Am I went online, and this week Bloodstock is proud to reveal that they will host ZP's festival comeback with new band I Am I, giving UK festival-goers their first chance to see the new project.

"We are delighted to be appearing at this year's Bloodstock, the UK's premier Metal festival and we can't wait to see you all there. It's going to be a very special show and we are completely stoked for it. Bring it on!"

Boasting exclusive headline sets from Alice Cooper, Behemoth and one more very special set to be announced at 6pm on 6th June, even more exclusive appearances from the likes of Testament, Dimmu Borgir, Hatebreed, The Black Dahlia Murder, Nile, Crowbar and countless others, Bloodstock Open Air is an essential date in any self-respecting metalhead's calendar.

Bloodstock Open Air 2012 takes place at Catton Hall August 9th â 12th. For more information and full line-up details, please visit www.bloodstock.uk.com